Q42: Congenital absence, atresia and stenosis of large intestine

The grouping of conditions under the title Congenital Absence, Atresia, and Stenosis of the Large Intestine refer to birth defects involving the large intestine (also known as the colon). These conditions occur when a baby's large intestine does not develop properly while in the womb. Congenital absence implies that a part or all of the large intestine is missing. Atresia is a condition wherein the normal openings of the intestine are narrow or blocked, causing an interruption in the connection between the bowel sections. Stenosis, on the other hand, denotes a narrowed section of the large intestine which creates a partial blockage. These abnormalities can lead to difficulty or inability in passing stool, causing symptoms like bloating, vomiting, and abdominal pain. These conditions typically become apparent shortly after birth and require surgical treatment to resolve them. Like all congenital conditions, they can't be prevented as they often result from genetic factors or unknown causes during development in the womb.